In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we’re diving into one of the most emotional and transformative parts of the writing process: feedback. Whether it’s coming from a critique partner, beta reader, or editor—feedback can shape your story, sharpen your craft, and sometimes knock your confidence sideways.

We’re sharing our own experiences with feedback—the best advice that changed everything, the poorly worded notes that derailed us, and what we’ve learned about both giving and receiving critique with honesty and care.

We also explore the emotional side of feedback: how to brace yourself before reading a critique, how to tell the difference between constructive and harmful input, and why learning to give feedback is just as powerful for your growth as receiving it.

If you’ve ever sat there blinking at a comment on your manuscript wondering, Is it too late to quit this whole writing thing?—this one’s for you.

Timestamps:
00:18 – Intro: Why feedback matters
01:00 – Part One: When and why to ask for feedback
07:29 – Solicited vs. unsolicited feedback (and how to tell the difference)
11:30 – How giving critique sharpens your own writing
13:43 – The best feedback we’ve ever received—and why it worked
20:55 – Part Two: How to give feedback without panicking
21:06 – A look at Radical Candour and learning to be honest and kind
22:36 – Preparing to give feedback (and not be a jerk)
31:17 – Our best and worst experiences giving critique
33:12 – Part Three: Receiving feedback without spiralling
33:35 – Prepping yourself emotionally
33:58 – What to do with tough or confusing comments
40:00 – Dealing with reviews and protecting your mindset
43:02 – Outro: Why feedback is worth it—and how to grow from it

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, feedback for writers, debut authors, critique partners, editing tips, writer mindset, creative process, writing community, giving feedback

We know feedback can be hard—but we also know it can be one of the most powerful tools in your writing toolkit. This episode is full of honest stories, practical tips, and reminders that you’re not alone.

Got a feedback horror story or golden nugget of advice? DM us on Instagram—we might feature it in a future episode!

Affiliate Links:

Kim Scott - Radical Candor

Stephen King - On Writing